Fort Sill Apache Tribe will appeal NIGC decision

Thursday, July 23, 2009  

The Fort Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma will "use every means" to fight the National Indian Gaming Commission over its casino in New Mexico, Chairman Jeff Houser said on Wednesday.

Houser said the NIGC was wrong to issue a notice of violation for the Apache Homelands Entertainment Center. He said the decision ignores the tribe's restoration to federal recognition and its right to engage in gaming on restored lands.

"We will use every means at our disposal to fight for our tribe members and the hard working people of New Mexico who need jobs,” said Houser. "We feel strongly that the NIGC’s decision was based on an incomplete understanding of the facts surrounding our tribe’s history with the U.S. Government and the conditions under which we regained our sovereign rights.”

The tribe has 30 days to appeal the NOV. In the meantime, bingo games will continue at the facility, Houser said.

This battle is not about keeping a casino open. It is struggle to create good paying jobs for local residents and bring economic development to an area that so desperately needs it," Houser said.

Relevant Documents:
Notice of Violation: Fort Sill Apache Tribe (July 21, 2009)